For all the positives under Ange Postecoglou this season, a miserable run over the past month led to concern for Tottenham supporters.
Four straight defeats severely damaged their team’s hopes of finishing above Villa and Postecoglou was hoping to avoid the ignominy of becoming the first Spurs boss to lose five on the bounce since Ossie Ardiles in 1994.
The ease with which their team have leaked goals – conceding 13 times in the defeats by Newcastle, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool – has been particularly alarming.
Burnley, who arrived as the third lowest scorers in the league, were also able to find space in attacking areas and punished Spurs through Bruun Larsen’s opener.
But Tottenham eventually had enough quality to come through a stern test – even though they needed two defenders to provide the attacking spark.
The fightback maintained Spurs’ slim hopes of overhauling Villa.
Tottenham know they must beat Manchester City and Sheffield United in their final two games, while hoping Unai Emery’s side drop points against Liverpool and Crystal Palace.
“We were dominant enough, their keeper was outstanding today and we had enough chances,” said Postecoglou.
“It’s always difficult when you lose four matches in a row and it is only natural there will be a bit of anxiety and a bit of stress.
“It should have been a more comfortable victory but the most important thing is we won the game.”
Bbc
